High Domain

The Isle of Skye is looking spectacular

Today was the last day of the Intro Winter Climber course and Chaz, Rob and Ian were keen to push it out today. The thought of a big walk in didn't interest them so we headed to Sgurr a' Chaorachain and opted for North Buttress. We down climbed and lowered down No.5 Gully (I or II) which brought us to our chosen objective of High Domain (IV,6). We climbed the route in 3 pitches giving good interest through out up this turfy groove. The crux was short lived and right at the end of the route, where a crux should be. This was a big grade step for all the guys and they all managed it after some huffing and puffing. It was a great finale to the week and at tea and cakes it was clear that they had enjoyed themselves and the course had met their expectations. Its been fantastic weather up here in the North West. Climbing conditions have been interesting. The turf is bomber but quite dry in places, ice is forming nicely but generally snow cover is thin. As everything is so dry care must be taken with blocks and boulders, some just aren't frozen in. This week I have been working for MoranMountain.